Thieves and pick-pockets had a tough 2011. Statistics show that the number of thefts reported reduced from 6,442 in 2010 to 6,115 in 2011. Puja Changoiwala reports.

Thieves and pick-pockets had a tough 2011. Statistics show that the number of thefts reported reduced from 6,442 in 2010 to 6,115 in 2011. The detection rate cases of theft also witnessed a marginal increase. Of the 6,115 cases registered this year, 2,198 cases were detected as against last year when 2,298 cases were detected.

The Mumbai police said that the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras has helped immensely in controlling the menace of petty thefts.

"CCTV cameras have proved to be a boon for reducing thefts in the city. While we are working on enhancing our surveillance network, CCTV cameras inside shops, and at crowded places have made it increasingly difficult for thieves to escape without the fear of being caught," said Manohar Dalvi, deputy commissioner of police (operations) and spokesperson for the police force.

The number of pocket-picking incidents reported in 2011 also reduced marginally. In 2011, a total of 158 pocket-picking complaints were filed with the Mumbai police as against 164 cases registered in 2010.

The police attribute the decline in cases of pick-pocketing to increased patrolling on the streets. "The patrolling has increased, helped by a gradual increase in the staff available with the police force. You will find a uniformed policeman or a beat marshal policing the streets at all times. Pocket-pickers see them and immediately know that they will not get away with their act in a policeman's presence," Dalvi added.

Of the 158 pocket-picking incidents recorded this year, 80 cases have been detected.